This blog post discusses the integration of my education, training and work experiences while leading from my heart in developing a Children’s Yoga Teacher Training. My motto is “let play guide your heart!” The process of yoga is really about getting to know your authentic self.
Ponder the words “vibrationally aligned”. What does that mean to you? My perspective of this idea is that one’s life has inspiration and purpose moment to moment in both work and play. Work is play when you are “vibrationally aligned” with your passion. Have you ever noticed how time flies by when you are in those moments of pure joy in your work?
Over the years, I have paid attention to what brings me joy in my work. Fundamentally, I need to be creative yet compassionate in being of service to others that need my help. My professional background as a former Special Education Teacher within the public schools for 11 years tapped into my need to think creatively, adapt to the person and empower the individual to solve challenges. After having my son, almost 2 decades ago, I started on another journey to study the connection between mind and body.
This led me to become both a Certified Yoga Therapist (1,000 hours) and a 500 hour Yoga Teacher certified through the American ViniYoga Institute. I have been blessed to teach in many different capacities over the last 17 years including public classes, teacher training, private sessions, mentoring, and university presentations. I love what I do and realize there is the highest of callings…
Creating my very own Children’s Yoga Teacher Training
After co-writing a curriculum for Children’s Yoga TT through another business and training teachers for 5 summers, I realize the time has come for me to venture out on my own and offer the community a program rooted both in the art and science of mindfulness practices for children and the adults that work with kids.
Announcing my Registered 95-hour Children’s Yoga Teacher Training launching this Spring 2021. (changed start due to COVID)
The golden thread that runs through my Children's Yoga Teacher Training is the themes of Childhood Development and Holistic practices for optimizing children’s wellness. This program delivers training in techniques such as children's group activities, movement, breathwork, and meditation, but also sound teaching methodology as to the science behind the practices. Students will leave with:
An understanding of developmentally appropriate practices for ages 2-15 yo
Mindfulness techniques involving movement, breath, relaxation/visualization and meditation, and games/group activities
The science behind behavior and the brain's role in the behavior
The building of empathy and emotional literacy skills
Shame versus empathy
Neurohealthy language that allows a child to feel understood
Adapting for children with special needs
Working with children of trauma
Yoga philosophy foundation
A deeper understanding of the autonomic nervous system
Experience teaching different age groups of children
and much more...
Having trained students in Children’s Yoga over 5 summers, I have witnessed tremendous growth of many individuals from the beginning of training through completion of the program. What's so different about a Children's Yoga Teacher Training is the process of tapping back into a very powerful place...your inner child.
Weekend 1: Themes: Connection, Developmental Stages, and Fostering Creativity in Kids
Weekend 2: Themes: Yoga Philosophy, Neurohealthy language; Brain and Behavior; Reducing Anxiety in Kids
Weekend 3: Themes: Rhythm, Working with Attention Challenges, and Building Empathy
Weekend 4: Themes: Working with Special Needs Children; Relaxation, Cultivating Strength
Weekend 5: Themes: Conscious Communication; Trauma, and Yoga Life Skills
Weekend 6: Themes: Power of Play, Self Care; and Putting it All Together
I look forward to connecting with you! Until then, sit with this idea of being “vibrationally aligned” in both your work and play.